What is Ride Control

According to Newton's First Law, a moving body will continue moving in a straight line until it is acted upon by another force. Newton's Second Law states that for each action there is an equal and opposite reaction. In the case of the automobile, whether the disturbing force is in the form of a wind-gust, an incline in the roadway, or the cornering forces produced by tires, the force causing the action and the force resisting the action will always be in balance.

Many things affect vehicles in motion. Weight distribution, speed, road conditions and wind are some factors that affect how vehicles travel down the highway. Under all these variables however, the vehicle suspension system including the shocks, struts and springs must be in good condition. Worn suspension components may reduce the stability of the vehicle and reduce driver control. They may also accelerate wear on other suspension components.

Replacing worn or inadequate shocks and struts will help maintain good ride control as they:

Control spring and suspension movement
Provide consistent handling and braking
Prevent premature tire wear
Help keep the tires in contact with the road
Maintain dynamic wheel alignment
Control vehicle bounce, roll, sway, dive and acceleration squat
Reduce wear on other vehicle systems
Promote even and balanced tire and brake wear
Reduce driver fatigue

Suspension concepts and components have changed and will continue to change dramatically, but the basic objective remains the same:

Provide steering stability with good handling characteristics
Maximize passenger comfort

Achieving these objectives under all variables of a vehicle in motion is called ride control.